32-Zoll-Laufräder – Nische oder nächster Standard?

Bigger, faster, more comfortable? 32-inch wheels are currently a hot topic in the cycling community. For whom does the larger diameter really make sense? What advantages does it offer on the trail – and where does it reach its limits? And what complications lie in store in everyday use and logistics?

During this panel discussion at Cycle Week, experts from development, industry and the field will discuss the potential of 32-inch wheels. The discussion will cover riding dynamics, geometry and areas of application – as well as market opportunities and acceptance within the retail sector.

Is 32 inches the future of mountain biking, or will it remain an exciting niche topic for select target groups? And what role do innovation, marketing and real-world performance play in establishing new standards?

Panel participants: We look forward to an exciting discussion with:

Thomas Stoll is a Swiss entrepreneur, former professional mountain biker and founder and owner of STOLL Bikes. As a qualified engineer, he brings technical expertise and many years of racing experience to the development of his bikes. Stoll is currently attracting attention with the P32 innovation project, a 32-inch mountain bike, and is actively driving forward the discussion on new standards in the MTB sector.

Chris Bättig is an entrepreneur and a leading figure in the cycling industry. The founder of Chris Sports has successfully established numerous international brands in the Swiss market thanks to his keen sense for trends and innovation. In addition to his entrepreneurial activities, he is also involved at association level: as vice-president of velosuisse, he actively champions the interests of the Swiss bicycle industry and promotes the sector’s further development.

Valentin Wendel is an engineer at BMC and works at the Impec Lab, where the 32-inch Mountain Prototype bike was developed – a bike that was already spotted being used in training on MTB XC World Cup courses back in 2025. As a passionate mountain biker and former racer, Valentin is always looking for ways to improve.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Thomas Giger, editor of RIDE Magazine, who is able to highlight different perspectives by posing insightful questions to the panellists. Questions from the audience are, of course, also welcome.

Anyone wishing to test ride a 32-inch bike can do so on Saturday, 30 May from 12:00 to 17:30 at RIDE’s stand B54.